State Minister for Youth and Sports, Md. Aminul Haque, attended a views-exchange meeting as the chief guest today at the conference room of the National Sports Council. Photo: Ministry

DHAKA, March 16, 2026 (BSS) - The Ministry of Youth and Sports has taken a nationwide initiative to revive the country’s sporting glory and identify talented athletes from the grassroots. 

As part of this effort, a new talent search programme titled “Notun Kuri Sports” will be launched across the country, inspired by the popular “Notun Kuri” talent hunt of the 1980s.

To ensure proper preparation and implementation of the programme, a views-exchange meeting was held on Monday at the conference room of the National Sports Council. 

The meeting was organised by the Directorate of Sports and attended by Deputy Commissioners, Upazila Nirbahi Officers and District Sports Officers across the country.

State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque attended the meeting as the chief guest. 

It was announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will officially inaugurate the programme on April 30.

Speaking at the meeting, the State Minister said the competition will feature seven popular sports events for children aged 12 to 14. 

Initially, the programme is planned to begin in Sylhet. The competition will start at the upazila level, with winners advancing to the district and divisional levels, and finally competing at the national level.

He said the initiative aims to create opportunities for young athletes to pursue sports as a professional career. 

Selected participants will receive government sports scholarships, while their advanced training, education and overall development will be managed through Bangladesh Krira Shikkha Protisthan (BKSP).

The State Minister added that the programme will also help keep the younger generation away from drugs and excessive digital addiction, contributing to the development of a healthy and productive nation.

According to the plan, the competition will be held annually following a specific calendar, with the goal of completing this year’s events by July.

Authorities also plan to promote sports and cultural activities in educational institutions throughout the year to strengthen grassroots participation.

Officials believe the initiative will encourage unity and national progress through sports, beyond political affiliations.